In a world where superheroes are always looked up to, the famous series The Boys says: What if they are flawed and egotistical? The Amazon Prime series has broken the traditional hero narrative by exposing the darker side of fandom.
The superheroes in this darkly comedic series are shockingly accurate parodies of Marvel and DC characters. Writers haven't held back from making parodies of famous comic book characters.
William Billy Butcher - Karl Urban
The character of Billy Butcher can be seen as a direct parody of The Punisher from Marvel. Both these characters operate outside the law using violent means and are highly skilled in combat.
They don't trust government and established institutions and are driven by vengeance.
The Female - Karen Fukuhara
Kimiko Miyashiro, or The Female, resembles two X-Men characters, Deadpool and Wolverine. These characters share superhuman strength and healing abilities.
They have also undergone horrific experiences that have shaped their personalities.
Starlight - Erin Moriarty
Starlight resembles multiple Marvel and DC characters. Her costume, which features a star-spangled motif, is strikingly similar to DC's Mary Marvel.
At the same time, her powers to manipulate light are very similar to Marvel's Dazzler.
Homelander - Antony Starr
Homelander from The Boys is, without any doubt, a parody of Superman. These characters possess incredible powers, including flight, heat vision, and superhuman strength.
They are also portrayed as American idols and symbols of hope and justice.
The Deep - Chace Crawford
Kevin Moskowitz, known as The Deep, is a parody of DC's Aquaman. Both these characters have aquatic abilities and a deep connection to Marine life.
Aquaman is an influential and respected leader, whereas The Deep is shallow and insecure.
Queen Maeve - Dominique McElligott
Queen Maeve is a parody of DC's superheroine Wonder Woman. Both these are feminist warriors with mythological ties. Even Queen Maeve's armour is inspired by Wonder Woman.
However, Wonder Woman is a virtuous hero, whereas Maeve struggles with fame and has to make moral compromises.
Soldier Boy - Jensen Ackles
Soldier Boy is a parody character based on Marvel's Captain America. Both characters are presented as American idols who have gained their abilities through a government-developed serum.
One difference is that Captain America uses his shield for defence, whereas Soldier Boy’s is often used as a weapon. Also, both characters have been frozen in time.
A-Train - Jessie T. Usher
A-Train is a parody of The Flash from DC comics and Quicksilver from Marvel comics. All these characters are the fastest people in their respective worlds and are seen as symbols of power and athleticism.
However, The Flash and Quicksilver are portrayed as heroes, whereas A-Train is arrogant and self-centred.
Black Noir lI - Nathan Mitchell
Black Noir is a parody of DC's iconic character, Batman. Both characters are mysterious, highly skilled, and physically strong.
Black Noir ll continues the character and maintains the same elements as its archetype.
Firecracker - Valorie Curry
Firecracker is likely a parody of Jubilee, a Marvel Comics character. Both can generate energy blasts from their hands.
In addition, Firecracker is among the few characters seen using firearms.
With these fearless parodies, The Boys delivers a scathing critique of the superhero genre, revealing the flaws and absurdities beneath the surface.
It's a show that will leave you laughing, cringing, and questioning everything you know about the superhero universe.